icebreaker
Arctic hull vessel
An icebreaker is a ship designed to break through ice-covered waters, clearing passages for other vessels.
The term extends to anything that eases initial awkwardness in social situations: We started the meeting with an icebreaker to help everyone relax.
Such icebreakers might be games, questions, or activities meant to get strangers talking.
A person who initiates conversation or lightens a tense atmosphere may also be called an icebreaker.
Informal light conversation
- banterPlayful, teasing exchange
- rapportHarmonious mutual connection
- openerWhat begins something
- greetingExpression of welcome
introduction · hello · handshake · pleasantry · nicety · schmooze · mixer · networking
Organized play or sport
- questionRequest for information
- promptIncite to action
- introductionPreliminary section or presentation
- warmupPre-activity preparation
energizer · exercise · challenge · riddle · quiz · trivia · roleplay · teambuilder
First to forge ahead
- pioneerEarly explorer or settler
- pathfinderOne who discovers routes
- groundbreakerInnovator, first to act
- innovatorCreator of new methods
catalyst · spark · opener · initiative · breakthrough
chitchat
Informal light conversation
greeting · introduction · hello · handshake · pleasantry · nicety · schmooze · mixer · networking · mingling
game
Organized play or sport
- questionRequest for information
- promptIncite to action
- introductionPreliminary section or presentation
warmup · energizer · exercise · challenge · riddle · quiz · trivia · roleplay · teambuilder · facilitator
trailblazer
First to forge ahead
- pioneerEarly explorer or settler
- pathfinderOne who discovers routes
- groundbreakerInnovator, first to act
innovator · catalyst · spark · opener · initiative · breakthrough
vessel
Receptacle for contents
expedition · Arctic · Antarctic · polar · navigation · channel · passage · escort · convoy · fleet
- Coast Guard vesselscutter, patrol boat, lifeboat, rescue boat
- polar vessels
- Workboatsworkboat, tugboat, tug, towboat, pusher
- boatsboat, ship, canoe, kayak, yacht
- gamesboard games, card games, board game, card game, video games
- vehiclescar, bus, truck, van, bike
icebreakermood killer
What ruins atmosphere
buzzkill · awkward silence · cold shoulder · snub · rebuff
icebreakerclosing remarks
Final statements concluding presentation
farewell · goodbye · sign-off · parting words · wrap-up